Get a Jump Start On Your Spring Cleaning

A few weeks ago, the groundhog Punxsutawney Phil predicted there would be six more weeks of winter, and whether or not you buy into his ability to forecast the weather, it’s never too early to prepare your home for Spring.  During the winter months, many bugs lie dormant; however, as the temperatures rise, bugs tend to come out of their slumber. 

What can you do to safeguard your home from a home invasion during the springtime? 

1. Declutter Basements, Cabinets, Closets and Garages- Many bugs, especially spiders, love to hide in dark corners of cabinets, basements and closets. You will want to make sure that these particular spaces are decluttered to prevent bugs from hiding out. These spaces tend to be cooler and are very attractive for bugs that don’t like warmer temperatures.
   
2. Deep Clean Your Kitchens – Bugs also hide underneath appliances like stoves and refrigerators. We recommend you deep clean these areas and rid them of any spills, dust and dirt to make them less attractive to pests.
   
3. Steam Clean Your Furniture and Carpets – Vacuum and steam clean your couches, chairs and other furniture where dust, crumbs, pet hair and dirt may be lingering. This also will eliminate any pests that may be hiding in furniture. In addition, make sure you wash pillowcases and throw blankets.
   
4. Wash Out Garbage Cans – Washing garbage cans even if you keep a trash bag in them will also help eliminate bugs. Even with a liner in the can, crumbs and other debris can collect in the bottom of it. You also want to ensure that you clean any outside trash cans as well.
   
5. Seal Windows and Doors – It is always a good idea to check your windows and doors for any openings or leaks that would allow bugs to get into your home. Weatherstripping in windows and doors will wear down, which means it needs to be replaced. You want to make sure that all of these areas are sealed and airtight.
   
6. Check for Standing Water in Your Yard – Make sure there is no standing water in your yard that could attract bugs, especially mosquitoes. Clean or dump water out of any buckets or bird baths that have been filled with water during the winter months. 

Once you have completed your spring cleaning, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your local Cook’s Pest Control office to inspect your home routinely.